Hazelnut and Pistachio Thandāi

Commonly enjoyed during Holi, the springtime Hindu festival of colors, this drink is refreshing as well as nutty, spicy, and sweet. It begins with nuts and seeds that are blended and combined with milk. The hazelnuts complement the subtle flavor of pistachios. Many versions also have cashews, almonds, melon seeds, and white poppy seeds, so feel free to experiment. Fennel seeds are key here, and I add a generous amount. If you prefer a subtler flavor, reduce the amount by half.